Update Livestock Health Act

Current law authorizes the inspection, testing, quarantine, condemnation, and destruction of livestock when there is an outbreak of an infectious or contagious disease. The act:

• Removes the requirement that the inspection, testing, and quarantine of livestock occur pursuant to rules promulgated by the commissioner of agriculture (commissioner); and
• Changes the appraisal process that is required before livestock may be condemned and destroyed.

The act gives the commissioner the authority to investigate all buildings, yards, pens, pastures, and other areas in which any animals are kept, handled, or transported to ensure compliance with the "Livestock Health Act". The commissioner may:

• Administer oaths and take statements;
• Issue administrative subpoenas requiring the attendance of witnesses and the production of all books, memoranda, papers, and other documents, articles, or instruments; and
• Compel the disclosure by witnesses of all facts known to them that are relevant to the matters under investigation.

Under current law, it is an unlawful act to alter or falsify a health certificate issued for the import of livestock into the state. The act makes it an unlawful act to alter or falsify a health certificate issued for the export of livestock out of the state.

APPROVED by Governor May 18, 2023

EFFECTIVE May 18, 2023
(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)